12-year-old poet launches book
ONE of Mitchells Plain’s youngest authors has launched her first book, and has already started on her next one.
Twelve-year-old Leila Alexander launched
Thoughts, which is a collection of her own poetry, on Monday at the Westridge Library.
“I was very happy about the launch; it was nice to read and show the people my work,” Leila explains.
The schoolgirl, who started writing poetry after her grandmother died, says the book launch has now paved the way for fresh possibilities.
“Big opportunities opened up for me and a lot of people helped me – people like Yusuf Daniels especially – and everyone has been very supportive,” she adds.
Her mother, Karen Alexander-Haddon says the book is a stepping stone for Leila to grow as a writer.
“She is only 12 years old but we are very proud of her, my whole family is proud. The book is not about her making money but about her putting herself out there, knowing that you can achieve anything you put your mind to,” Karen explains. Bestselling Cape Town author Yusuf Daniels, who was at the book launch, said he was blown away by Leila’s writing.
“She is way beyond her years; she speaks to the youth and I think every young lady should listen to her poetry,” Daniels adds.
He said Leila has a unique and natural gift for the written word: “I can only imagine what she is going to be like at the age of 16 or 17.”
Meanwhile, Leila says her second poetry book will be ready for launch in December.
“I have already started with the book. I have about three poems and I might write a book every year,” she smiles.